The MiLAN MIL-S8000G Gigabit Ethernet switch is the smallest and least-expandable switch in this roundup. But it is also by far the most affordable.

At 19 inches wide, this eight-port switch will fit into any standard equipment rack. Mounting brackets and a very basic yet clearly structured manual are part of the package.

While there is no Web-based management interface, the switch can be configured through a serial console port located at the front of the unit. Also on the front panel is an array of LEDs that display connection speed, link status, and activity as well as the duplex mode of the current connection.

The low price reflects the somewhat limited feature set of the MIL-S8000G. Rather than providing support for the 802.1q protocol, for example, the MIL-S8000G offers only port-based VLANs. A major drawback to this type of architecture is that a VLAN cannot span multiple Layer 2 switches. Port mirroring and trunking are two useful features that this inexpensive switch does offer.

Bottom Line: Upgrading from McAfee Internet Security to McAfee Total Protection gets you a file encryption utility and extra licenses for the password manager. Unless you need those features, you may be better off with McAfee AntiVirus Plus.

MiLAN MIL-S8000G

MiLAN MIL-S8000G

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